Domestic Violence is any abuse of physical or sexual force, actual or threatened, in an intimate relationship. Although both men and women can be victims of domestic violence the overwhelming majority of this violence involves men abusing women.
These crimes are often committed in a context where there is a pattern of assaultive and controlling behaviour. This violence may include physical assault and emotional, psychological and sexual abuse. It can include threats to harm children, other family members, pets and property. The violence is used to intimidate, humiliate or frighten victims or to make them powerless. Domestic violence may include a single act of abuse. It may also include a number of acts which may appear minor or trivial when viewed in isolation but collectively form a pattern that amounts to abuse.
Criminal Code offences include, but are not limited to homicide, assault, sexual threats/assault, threatening death or bodily harm, forcible confinement, harassment, stalking, abduction, breaches of court orders, and property-related offences.
Intimate relationships include those between the opposite-sex or same sex partners. These relationships vary in duration and legal formality and include current and former dating, common law and married couples.
In addition, the GBDVCC recognizes the impact of economic abuse on the health, well being and future of women and children who are the victims of domestic violence.
(Source: Modified from the Report of the Joint Committee on Domestic Violence, 1999)
There will be a community gathering with speakers, discussion and refreshments at St. Georges Parish Hall to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This will be an opportunity to share conversation about human rights issues in a World Cafe setting. No Charge and Everyone is Welcome. For information call (519) 376-4670.